Point-of-Care PCR Sample Receiving Device with Integrated Liquid Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current PCR methods for detecting pathogenic viruses, such as SARS CoV-2, are time-consuming, require trained personnel, and involve sample transport and purification, making them unsuitable for rapid, point-of-care diagnostics, especially in controlling pandemic situations.
Innovation Solution
A device with a receiving container and sample collecting means that includes a liquid processing composition for in-situ PCR tests, allowing direct testing near the patient without purification, featuring a closing mechanism with a passage opening and a terminating element for safe sample handling and identification, enabling quick and reliable detection of respiratory viruses like SARS CoV-2.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard PCR methods are performed in specialized laboratories, then reliable detection of pathogenic viruses is achieved, but the testing process becomes time-consuming and requires sample transport and purification
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the PCR testing process into modular components: a receiving container for sample collection, a closing means with passage opening for controlled transfer, and integrated sample processing capabilities. This segmentation allows the testing to be divided between point-of-care sample preparation and subsequent analysis, eliminating the need for centralized laboratory processing while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving container with liquid processing composition acts as an intermediary between sample collection and PCR analysis. It provides a stable environment that preserves sample integrity during transport from collection site to testing location, enabling reliable detection without requiring immediate laboratory processing or complex purification steps.
2Measurement precision
If sample transport and purification steps are included, then accurate PCR results are obtained, but the complexity of the testing process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges sample collection, storage, and processing functions into a single integrated receiving container system. The closing means with passage opening combines sealing and controlled transfer capabilities, eliminating the need for separate purification equipment and reducing overall process complexity while maintaining detection accuracy through integrated liquid processing composition.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving container serves multiple functions: it collects samples, stores them under controlled conditions, and facilitates their transfer to PCR analysis. The closing means provides both sealing and controlled release capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate devices and steps needed, simplifying the overall testing process while ensuring accurate results.
3Reliability
If trained personnel and specialized laboratories are used, then reliable virus detection is achieved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving container with integrated liquid processing composition enables self-service sample preparation and stabilization. The system automatically maintains sample integrity without requiring specialized technical knowledge or equipment, allowing non-expert personnel to perform reliable virus detection at point-of-care locations.
4Measurement precision
If sample purification is performed, then PCR accuracy is improved, but the loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid processing composition in the receiving container performs preliminary sample stabilization and preparation at the time of collection. This preliminary action preserves nucleic acid integrity and eliminates the need for time-consuming purification steps later, maintaining PCR accuracy while significantly reducing overall processing time.
Data Source
AI summary
Device (1) for receiving biological samples for carrying out a PCR analysis method for determination of pathogenic_microorganisms, in particular pathogenic viruses, especially viruses that cause respiratory diseases, having—a receiving container (2) with a first opening (4), and a closure device (6) which is adapted to the opening (4) of the receiving container (2) such that the opening (4) of the receiving container (2) is able to be closed with the closure device (6), wherein the closure device (6) has a through-opening (20), characterized in that the receiving container contains a liquid preparation composition for point-of-care implementation of a PCR test.