Nested Tube Assembly for Undiluted Biological Sample Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biological fluid collection systems often result in sample dilution and waste fluid generation due to the need for rinsing and handling of biological samples, which can be hazardous and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A tube assembly system comprising a first tube and a second tube with a securing mechanism to create an interstitial space, allowing for undiluted sample transfer and elimination of waste fluid through a sealed system with a collection mechanism and controller for fluid management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the dispensing needle and tubing are flushed with rinse solution between every biological fluid sample collection, then the system is cleaned and prepared for the next sample, but biological fluid waste is generated and samples may be diluted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the rinsing function from the main sample collection path by introducing a separate waste collection tube. The dispensing needle can be rinsed into the waste tube without contaminating the sample collection path, thereby eliminating sample dilution while maintaining system cleanliness through dedicated waste removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the fluid paths into separate channels: one for sample collection and another for waste disposal. By providing distinct tubes for different functions (sample collection tube vs. waste collection tube), the system allows independent management of clean and contaminated fluid paths, preventing cross-contamination and sample dilution.
2Productivity
If collection vessels are located in close physical proximity to the dispensing needle, then sample transfer is efficient, but the system requires refrigerated environment or close proximity to subject which increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested tube configuration where an inner tube is positioned within an outer tube. The inner tube handles sample collection while the outer tube manages waste or provides structural support. This nested arrangement allows efficient sample transfer through the inner tube while the outer tube contains the rinsing and waste functions, eliminating the need for external refrigeration systems.
3Reliability
If a sealed collection vessel is used, then sample contamination is prevented, but air displacement mechanism is required which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a two-tube system where the outer tube serves as an intermediary channel for air displacement. When the inner tube dispenses sample into the sealed collection vessel, the outer tube provides a dedicated pathway for air to escape, eliminating the need for complex mechanical air displacement mechanisms while maintaining the sealed environment.
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 the collection of undiluted biological samples without waste fluid generation, reducing the need for hazardous waste handling and improving efficiency in sample collection processes.
Implementation Method 1
a biological sample can pass from the first end of the first tube by way of the interstitial space into the opening of the second end of the second tube
Data Source
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AI summary
The tube assembly of the present disclosure includes a first tube, a second tube, a mechanism for securing the tubes, and a means of applying a seal material to first end of second tube. The first end of the second tube extends beyond the first end of the first tube an interstitial space is created between the outer diameter of the first tube and the inner diameter of the second tube. The tubing mechanism is utilized for retrieval of a biological fluid through the first tube, flushing the first tube and the second tube with a rinse solution during the return of biological fluid.