Multi-Chambered Sampler with Piercing Separators for Reagent Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Point-of-care testing samplers with single compartments require premixing of multiple reagents, which can lead to reduced effective life due to instability of buffers over time.
Innovation Solution
A multi-chambered sampler design with separate compartments for two buffers that are mixed only at the time of use, using a sampler body with septum separators that are broken by the blood collector's piercing projection, allowing for easy mixing and application to a test strip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple reagents are premixed and stored together in a single compartment, then the sampler structure is simple and easy to use, but the effective life of reagents decreases due to degradation over time
Solution Approach 1:
The sampler is divided into multiple separate compartments (first reservoir, second reservoir, third reservoir) that are initially isolated from each other by separators. Each compartment can store different reagents or buffers independently, preventing degradation that would occur if they were premixed. The compartments are segmented both physically and functionally, allowing each reagent to maintain its stability until the moment of use.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If multiple reagents are stored in separate compartments, then the effective life of reagents is extended, but the sampler structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The separators are nested within the sampler body structure, with the first separator forming a first enclosure, the second separator forming a second enclosure, and the third separator forming a third enclosure. These nested enclosures create multiple compartments without requiring separate external containers, thus extending reagent shelf life while minimizing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements are merged into a single integrated sampler device. The separators, reservoirs, and mixing chamber are combined into one unit that performs multiple functions: storage, separation, mixing, and dispensing. This merging reduces the overall system complexity compared to using multiple separate devices.
3Ease of operation
If separators are designed to be easily broken by the blood collector, then the mixing process is simplified, but the separators may be accidentally broken during storage or handling
Solution Approach 1:
The separators have different mechanical properties in different locations. The bulk of the separator material is designed to be strong and resistant to accidental breaking during storage and handling. However, specific localized regions (such as where the blood collector pierces) are designed with reduced strength or stress concentration features that enable easy breaking during the intended mixing operation. This local differentiation of mechanical properties resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
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 design maintains the stability of buffers until use, preventing degradation and extending the shelf life of reagents while maintaining user convenience by allowing easy insertion and mixing of samples with buffers.
Implementation Method 1
the piercing projection of the sampler body pierces the first and second separators
Implementation Method 2
mixing a sample held in the blood collector with the first and second buffers by agitating the combined sampler body and blood collector
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A system for mixing a sample with a combined buffer includes a sampler body, the sampler body including a first reservoir and a second reservoir. The system further includes a first separator forming a first enclosure with the sampler body for the first reservoir. The system further includes a second separator forming a second enclosure with the sampler body for the first reservoir. The system further includes a third separator, in conjunction with the second separator, forming a third enclosure and a fourth enclosure, respectively, both in conjunction with the sampler body, for the second reservoir.