One-Handed Surface Sampling Device with Nested Bags

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing biological sampling technologies require both hands for operation and generate excessive waste due to multiple individually packaged items, making them inefficient and cumbersome, especially when used in hazardous environments with protective gear.

Innovation Solution

A surface sampling apparatus featuring a one-handed operation system with nested sample bags that serve as both sampling and transport containers, utilizing a semi-flexible clip structure and resealable rims to simplify the sampling process and minimize waste.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple individually packaged sampling items are used, then sampling functionality is comprehensive, but waste generation increases and operation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesampling functionalityVSAvoidwaste generation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple individually packaged sampling items (swabs, sponges, wipes, containers) into a single integrated sampling device. The device integrates the sampling element, buffer solution reservoir, and transport container into one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate packaging of each component and thereby reducing waste generation while maintaining comprehensive sampling functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The sampling device is designed to perform multiple functions within a single unit: it can absorb liquids, store buffer solutions, collect samples, and serve as a transport container. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized items, reducing overall waste while maintaining adaptability for various sampling needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple individually packaged sampling items are used, then sampling functionality is comprehensive, but operation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesampling functionalityVSAvoidoperation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple individually packaged sampling items (swabs, sponges, wipes, containers) into a single integrated sampling device. The device integrates the sampling element, buffer solution reservoir, and transport container into one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate packaging of each component and thereby reducing waste generation while maintaining comprehensive sampling functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If two-handed operation is required, then precise control is achieved, but sampling speed decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesampling controlVSAvoidsampling speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple individually packaged sampling items (swabs, sponges, wipes, containers) into a single integrated sampling device. The device integrates the sampling element, buffer solution reservoir, and transport container into one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate packaging of each component and thereby reducing waste generation while maintaining comprehensive sampling functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10955314B1One-handed surface sampling device

Publication Date: 2021.03.23 THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

AI summary

A sampling apparatus and method for collecting chemical and biological samples is disclosed and claimed. A surface sampling apparatus is designed to simplify taking successive environmental samples using one hand. In addition, the sampling bag used with the apparatus serves as both safety barrier and transport bag and is prepared with multiple sampling surfaces and in wet or dry formats.