Pulp-Based Biological Sample Collection Tip for Narrow Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biological sample collection devices are inadequate for collecting samples from narrow spaces and often lack the necessary mechanical strength and wicking ability, posing risks of infection and contamination due to their material limitations and difficulty in shaping.
Innovation Solution
A sample collection device with a pulp-based tip made from cellulose fibers, molded into specific three-dimensional shapes with enhanced mechanical strength and wicking ability, combined with a chemical coating for pathogen inhibition, allowing for safer and more effective sample collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If soft foam or sponge pads are used for sample collection, then the material can be cut to any shape, but it has little inherent strength and is difficult to force into narrow spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials combining cellulose fibers with binding agents to create a pulp-based collection tip that achieves both shape flexibility and mechanical strength. The fibrous structure allows the material to be molded into various shapes while maintaining inherent strength to force into narrow spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the collection material by using pulped cellulose fiber structure with controlled density and composition. This allows the material to be molded into specific shapes with enhanced mechanical strength while retaining the ability to conform to narrow spaces through controlled deformation.
2Strength
If stronger foamed materials are used to increase strength, then mechanical strength is improved, but wicking ability is reduced which is important for collecting samples
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs porous pulp material made from cellulose fibers that maintains open pore structure for effective wicking action. The porous structure allows liquid samples to be drawn into and through the collection tip via capillary action while the fibrous network provides mechanical strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The composite pulp structure combines cellulose fibers with binding agents in specific ratios to achieve optimal balance between mechanical strength and wicking ability. The fibrous composition allows simultaneous achievement of structural integrity and liquid absorption capabilities.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If chemical coating is applied to the sample collecting tip, then pathogen safety is improved, but it is not possible with materials like foamed polymers that do not readily accept chemical coatings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the surface parameters of the collection tip by applying chemical coatings to the pulp material. The pulp structure provides suitable surface characteristics that readily accept chemical coatings for pathogen inhibition, unlike foamed polymers.
Solution Approach 2:
The pulp material acts as an intermediary substrate that facilitates chemical coating application. The fibrous structure and surface properties of the pulp enable effective adhesion of chemical coatings for pathogen safety without the manufacturing difficulties associated with foamed polymers.
4Strength
If cotton fibres are wound to form a teardrop shaped bud, then mechanical strength stability is improved, but it cannot reach narrow cracks or similar small spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the collection device into a handle portion and a separate pulp-based tip portion. The tip can be molded into elongated, tapered shapes that can reach narrow cracks while maintaining mechanical strength through the pulped fiber structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from the traditional three-dimensional teardrop bud shape to elongated, directional shapes that can penetrate narrow spaces. The pulp material allows creation of tips with extended length and tapered profiles that access narrow cracks while maintaining structural integrity.
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 enables easier and safer collection of biological samples from narrow spaces with improved mechanical strength and wicking ability, reducing the risk of infection and contamination, while the chemical coating enhances pathogen safety and sample preservation.
Implementation Method 1
the use of pulped material will allow... significantly improve the ease of manufacturing... wicking ability
Implementation Method 2
an anti-pathogen chemical composition capable of inhibiting the activity of pathogens and preserving a biological sample
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2~4
AI summary
A biological sample collection device (10) is disclosed including a shaped sample collecting tip (20a), said tip at least being formed from a fibrous material mixed with a liquid to form a pulp, said pulp being solidified to form the shape of the tip.