Moldable Plug Injection Device for Diagnostic Assays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for injecting liquid test samples into reaction vessels for analyte detection assays face challenges such as difficulty in diffusing the sample, time-consuming processes, and limited 'hold time' for the sample, leading to inefficiencies in assay conductance.
Innovation Solution
A liquid test sample injection device with a plunger and capillary system that forms an airtight seal, using a moldable plug to facilitate active and controlled injection into a reaction vessel, ensuring timely and efficient sample delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If liquid test sample is contained in the injection device for extended periods, then the hold time is increased, but the sample becomes more difficult to remove or diffuse from the injection device
Solution Approach 1:
The plug material transitions from a static state to a dynamic state through temperature change. At room temperature, the plug maintains a solid, stable state for extended hold times. When heated (e.g., in a water bath or by hand warmth), the plug becomes soft and moldable, enabling easy ejection of the sample. This dynamic property change resolves the contradiction between extended hold time and ease of sample removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the temperature parameter of the plug material to alter its physical properties. By controlling temperature, the plug transitions between a firm state (for stable sample containment during transport and storage) and a soft state (for easy sample ejection during use). This parameter change enables the system to achieve both long hold times and easy operation at different stages.
2Device complexity
If passive diffusion of liquid test sample into the reaction vessel is used, then the device structure is simplified, but the injection process becomes time-consuming and incomplete
Solution Approach 1:
The moldable plug acts as an intermediary mechanism between the simple container structure and the active sample delivery function. Rather than requiring complex mechanical injection systems, the plug's unique properties (moldability, temperature responsiveness) enable it to actively push the sample into the reaction vessel, achieving complete and rapid sample transfer while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug performs multiple functions autonomously: it seals the container during storage, facilitates complete sample ejection when heated, and prevents backflow after sample delivery. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex additional mechanisms while achieving rapid, complete sample transfer, thereby improving assay efficiency without significantly increasing device complexity.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the plug material is firm and stable, then the hold time is extended, but the sample becomes difficult to eject from the injection device
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the temperature parameter of the plug material to alter its physical properties. By controlling temperature, the plug transitions between a firm state (for stable sample containment during transport and storage) and a soft state (for easy sample ejection during use). This parameter change enables the system to achieve both long hold times and easy operation at different stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug material transitions from a static state to a dynamic state through temperature change. At room temperature, the plug maintains a solid, stable state for extended hold times. When heated (e.g., in a water bath or by hand warmth), the plug becomes soft and moldable, enabling easy ejection of the sample. This dynamic property change resolves the contradiction between extended hold time and ease of sample removal.
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
The device enhances assay efficiency by reducing injection time and increasing the sample's hold time within the device, allowing for more effective and timely analysis.
Implementation Method 1
the plug forms a substantially air-tight seal between the plunger body and the at least one side of the receptacle wall of the plunger receptacle
Implementation Method 2
a capillary for collecting a patient's liquid test sample and injecting the patient's liquid test sample into a reaction vessel
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, kits, and methods related to embodiments of an improved liquid test sample injection device for use in diagnostic assays.