Pop-up Sample Collection Device Using Condensation Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample collection methods, such as nasopharyngeal and nasal swabs, are uncomfortable, costly, and prone to contamination, limiting their accessibility and accuracy for widespread use, especially for laypeople.
Innovation Solution
A pop-up sample collection device featuring a planar sheet with fold lines and a porous media that forms an airflow channel, allowing users to exhale and capture samples without direct contact, which can be sealed and mailed for testing, reducing contamination and requiring no laboratory processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional nasopharyngeal or nasal swabs are used for sample collection, then the sample can be collected from the nasal passage, but the process is uncomfortable and prone to contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary sampling device that captures respiratory droplets in a sealed chamber, eliminating direct contact between the user and the collection medium. The droplet capture chamber acts as a mediator that passively collects samples through breath condensation, avoiding the discomfort and contamination risks of traditional swabs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical swabbing action with a passive condensation-based collection system. Instead of mechanically inserting and rotating a swab in the nasal passage, the system uses temperature differential and condensation physics to automatically collect respiratory droplets when the user breathes into the device
2Measurement precision
If laboratory processing is required for sample testing, then accurate pathogen detection can be achieved, but cost increases and delivery time is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal sampling device that works with multiple testing modalities (PCR, antigen testing, antibody detection) through standardized collection and storage mechanisms. The same device can support both laboratory-based and at-home testing, eliminating the need for separate collection systems for different test types
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary sample collection and stabilization actions at the point of care before any testing occurs. The immediate sealing and stabilization of the sample upon collection preserves nucleic acid integrity and prevents degradation, enabling accurate testing even when processed later or transported to different locations
3Reliability
If multiple steps and devices are involved in sample collection, then comprehensive sampling can be achieved, but the process becomes complicated and requires trained professionals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sampling function into distinct modular components: a droplet capture chamber, a sealed storage compartment, and an integrated testing interface. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while maintaining overall system simplicity and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the sample collection, storage, and initial processing functions into a single integrated device. The collection chamber seamlessly transitions to a sealed storage state, eliminating the need for separate containers and transfer steps that complicate conventional sampling protocols
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 provides a simple, inexpensive, and reliable method for laypeople to collect and test for pathogens or viruses, enhancing accessibility and accuracy by minimizing discomfort and contamination risks.
Implementation Method 1
A porous sample collection media has at least three edges and opposing major surfaces, at least one edge is fixed to the first major surface of the planar sheet of material
Implementation Method 2
The porous sample collection media substantially occludes the airflow channel between the mouthpiece end and the air outlet end
Data Source
AI summary
A sample collection device includes a planar sheet of material having opposing edges and a first major surface and an opposing second major surface, the planar sheet of material having at least two fold lines. A porous sample collection media has at least three edges and opposing major surfaces, at least one edge is fixed to the first major surface of the planar sheet of material. The planar sheet of material is configured to form an airflow channel by fixing the opposing edges together, the airflow channel extends from a mouthpiece end to an air outlet end. The porous sample collection media substantially occludes the airflow channel between the mouthpiece end and the air outlet end.