Oral Sample Collection Device with Integrated Filter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for collecting oral samples face challenges such as difficulty in obtaining a 1-2 mL sample size, especially in young children or the elderly, and contamination with food particles, which leads to lower DNA quality, clogs pipette tips, requires additional centrifugation steps, and reduces gDNA stability over time.
Innovation Solution
A sample collection device featuring a collection tube with a mouthpiece and a filter that allows samples to pass through while filtering out particulates and contaminants, ensuring a clean and stable sample for analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional oral sample collection methods are used, then sample collection is simple and non-invasive, but the sample contains food particles and contaminants that reduce DNA quality
Solution Approach 1:
The collection device is divided into separate functional components: a collection chamber for receiving oral samples, a filter element with multiple layers (including a hydrophobic layer and a membrane layer) for removing contaminants, and a storage chamber for the filtered sample. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall device simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The filter element acts as an intermediary between the collection chamber and storage chamber, selectively allowing DNA-containing fluid to pass through while blocking food particles and contaminants. The filter mediates the separation process without requiring complex external equipment, maintaining ease of operation while improving DNA quality
2Productivity
If conventional collection methods are used, then the collection process is quick, but additional centrifugation steps are required to eliminate food particles
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is pre-installed in the collection device before sample collection. This preliminary preparation ensures that filtration occurs automatically during the collection process itself, eliminating the need for subsequent centrifugation steps and reducing overall processing time
Solution Approach 2:
The collection and filtration functions are merged into a single integrated device. The filter element is positioned within the collection device such that sample collection and contaminant removal occur simultaneously in one operation, eliminating separate processing steps and improving productivity
3Ease of operation
If samples are collected without filtration, then the collection process is simple, but pipette tips become clogged during sample processing
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element extracts and removes food particles and contaminants from the oral sample during collection. By taking out these problematic particles before they enter the storage chamber, the filter prevents subsequent clogging of pipette tips and other processing equipment, maintaining both simplicity and reliability
4Adaptability or versatility
If oral samples are collected conventionally, then self-collection is possible, but obtaining a 1-2 mL sample size is challenging for young children or the elderly
Solution Approach 1:
The collection device includes a reservoir or expansion chamber that provides additional volume capacity beyond the initial collection area. This dimensional expansion allows the device to accommodate and collect larger sample volumes (1-2 mL) even from users with limited saliva production, while maintaining the simple self-collection approach
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 effectively filters out debris and contaminants, improving the quality of the oral sample, reducing the risk of clogged pipette tips, and enhancing the stability and efficiency of DNA processing and storage.
Implementation Method 1
a filter at least partially positioned within the channel, where the filter is configured to filter a sample as it passes through the channel and into the storage volume
Data Source
AI summary
A sample collection device including a collection tube at least partially defining a storage volume therein, a mouthpiece coupled to the collection tube, the mouthpiece defining a channel providing access to the storage volume, and a filter at least partially positioned within the channel, where the filter is configured to filter a sample as it passes through the channel and into the storage volume.