Compliant Nasal Swab Probe With Guided Force Limiting

The patent transforms the rigid system into a dynamic compliant system. The force sensor is replaced with a compliant mechanism that passively adapts to tissue forces through elastic deformation. This dynamic compliance eliminates the need for complex software control and provides inherent safety by mechanically limiting maximum force application, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and automated safety.

The patent substitutes the rigid mechanical force sensor with a compliant mechanical structure that uses elasticity and geometry to sense and limit forces. This mechanical substitution eliminates electronic sensors and software control, providing fail-safe operation through passive mechanical compliance that inherently prevents excessive force application during automated sampling.

The patent divides the tool into functionally independent segments: a rigid outer housing for structural support and a compliant inner mechanism for force application. The swab is held in a manner that allows it to maintain its natural compliance while being guided by the rigid housing. This segmentation enables the tool to have simple structure while preserving swab adaptability to different tissue types.

The patent introduces a compliant intermediate mechanism between the rigid tool housing and the swab. This intermediary element translates the motion from the rigid actuator into gentle, compliant force application through the swab, allowing the swab to maintain its compliance and adaptability while being driven by a simple rigid structure.

The patent incorporates passive mechanical compliance and friction elements beforehand that act as cushions to limit maximum force application. These elements are built into the mechanical structure to prevent excessive force before it can be applied to the subject, providing inherent safety without requiring software intervention or active control during the sampling process.

The patent designs the actuator system to be self-regulating through inherent mechanical properties. The compliant mechanism and friction elements automatically regulate force application based on tissue resistance, eliminating the need for external software control or sensing systems. The system serves itself by using its own mechanical structure to prevent harmful force application.