Peripheral Corneal Sampling Device with Inclined Cylinders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current corneal sampling techniques are limited in detecting corneal dysfunctions at an early stage and do not allow for accurate localization of pathological conditions, as they primarily focus on the central cornea and cannot sample multiple peripheral regions simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A device with three sampling cylinders and supporting pins, inclined at an angle, equipped with membrane filters of specific pore sizes, allowing for simultaneous sampling from multiple peripheral corneal areas, facilitated by a lighting system for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual application of a buffer with filter in the central area of the cornea is used, then the procedure is simple, but it only allows detection of corneal dysfunctions at an advanced stage and does not allow accurate diagnosis in relation to the location of the pathological condition
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the corneal sampling function into multiple independent sampling cylinders (at least two), each capable of sampling from different corneal regions simultaneously. This segmentation allows for multi-location sampling without requiring multiple separate manual applications, thereby improving diagnostic precision while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from single-point central corneal sampling to multi-point peripheral corneal sampling by arranging sampling cylinders at different spatial positions and orientations. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous sampling across multiple corneal regions, providing location-specific diagnostic information that was previously unattainable with central sampling alone.
2Reliability
If a device samples from multiple peripheral regions simultaneously, then early and accurate diagnosis is enabled, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The device integrates multiple sampling functions into a single unified structure. The support element with multiple sampling cylinders allows simultaneous performance of multiple sampling operations across different corneal regions, improving diagnostic reliability while avoiding the need for multiple separate devices or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines multiple sampling cylinders and their supporting structures into a single integrated device assembly. This merging of components enables simultaneous multi-region sampling in one application, enhancing diagnostic reliability without requiring the user to manage multiple separate sampling devices.
3Measurement precision
If the sampling cylinders are inclined at an angle with respect to the predetermined direction, then accurate positioning and sampling from peripheral areas is achieved, but the device alignment becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates localized reference features (reference marks on the support and corresponding indications on the buffer) at specific positions to guide alignment. These local quality markers enable precise positioning of the inclined sampling cylinders relative to the corneal limbus, achieving accurate peripheral sampling while simplifying the alignment process through visual guidance.
4Reliability
If the device is designed to be easily sterilizable, then safety is improved, but the structural design may be constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling cylinders and buffer are designed as disposable components that can be sterilized between uses or replaced entirely. This approach ensures sterility and patient safety while simplifying the overall device structure, as the reusable portion (support) remains simple and the disposable portions (cylinders, buffer) are designed for easy sterilization or single-use disposal without requiring complex sterilization mechanisms.
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 accurate and early diagnosis of corneal decompensation by sampling epithelial layers from multiple peripheral areas, allowing for timely preventive therapeutic interventions.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the at least two sampling cylinders (7a, 7b, 7c) includes a membrane filter (9a, 9b, 9c) with pores ranging in diameter size between 0,4 and 3 micron
Implementation Method 2
The device body further comprises a lighting system whose light has the purpose of ensuring the correct positioning of the device during the diagnostic sampling
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for ocular sampling, particularly for peripheral corneal sampling, comprising a support (2) from which at least two supporting pins extend, on the top thereof and at least two sampling cylinders, each comprising in correspondence with an end area, a membrane filter suitable to be brought in contact with an area of sclera-corneal limbus of an eye. Each of said at least two sampling cylinders being coupled, in a removable or not removable manner, with one of the at least two supporting pins.