Modular Hand-Held Sample Processing for Sterile Field Use

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing biological sample processing devices are complex, costly, and unsuitable for single-use or field applications, often requiring multiple machines and sterile environments, which can lead to contamination during sample transfer.

Innovation Solution

A modular, hand-held device comprising multiple connected modules with a liquid transfer mechanism and sealing/cutting mechanism to perform various biological processes sequentially, maintaining sterility and compactness for field use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate machines and equipment are used for biological sample processing, then various biological processes can be performed, but the device complexity increases and contamination risk increases during sample transfer

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to perform multiple biological processesVSAvoidnumber of separate machines and equipment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate biological processing functions into a single integrated device. Multiple chambers (e.g., lysis chamber, extraction chamber, purification chamber) are merged into one device with internal fluid communication, eliminating the need for multiple separate machines and reducing contamination risk during sample transfer.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated device is segmented into multiple functional chambers that can be independently configured for different biological processes. Each chamber can be selectively activated based on the required process, allowing versatility while maintaining a unified device structure that reduces overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If samples are moved between different machines and areas in the laboratory, then processing can be performed, but the risk of contamination increases unless strict sterile conditions are maintained

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample processing capabilityVSAvoidcontamination risk during sample transfer

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

By merging all processing steps into a single device with internal fluid communication, the patent eliminates the need to move samples between different machines and laboratory areas. The sample remains contained within the device throughout processing, dramatically reducing contamination risk while maintaining processing capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If complex mechanical components are used to facilitate liquid flow between chambers, then liquid transfer can be controlled, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveliquid flow controlVSAvoidmechanical components and manufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device uses passive liquid transfer mechanisms where liquid flows between chambers through gravity, pressure gradients, or simple valve control rather than complex mechanical pumping systems. The fluid communication pathways are designed to enable automatic liquid transfer based on simple operational inputs, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining flow control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 multiple biological processes in a single device, ensuring sterility and ease of use outside laboratory settings, reducing contamination risks and costs.

Implementation Method 1

a liquid transfer mechanism comprises a rotatable container (517) comprising an aperture that enables liquid to flow in to and out of the rotatable container (517), and a handle (519) coupled to one end of the rotatable container (517) which extends outside of the device (100) for rotating the rotatable container

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRotation:

Implementation Method 2

the mating portion (203) of each module (104a, 104b) comprises a cutting mechanism for breaking the seal (206) of an adjacent module, wherein the cutting mechanism is part of the connection mechanism (110); and wherein the cutting mechanism is activated by rotating one module (104a) relative to an adjacent module (104b)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical cutting:

Implementation Method 3

each module (104a, 104b) comprises at least one mating portion (203), and the mating portion (203) comprises a seal (206)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSealing:

Data Source

PatentEP3976252B1Modular sample processing device

Publication Date: 2025.10.15 WATERFORD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3
Figure 4A~4C

AI summary

Broadly speaking, embodiments of the present techniques provide a modular sample processing device which allows a user to perform any number of biological processes within a single device, in the order the user requires. The device is customisable – a user may select two or more modules and connect them in series to form the device in which the biological processing takes place. Advantageously, this may enable a user to perform multiple processes within a single device and potentially outside of a laboratory (e.g. during field work) or outside of sterile/aseptic environments. Furthermore, the device is a hand-held device, which means the device is compact and easy to transport and use for field work.