Rotatable Sample Collection Well for Drug Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drug testing methods are cumbersome, prone to sample adulteration, and unsuitable for on-site collection, particularly in public or roadside settings, due to the complexity and messiness of existing urine collection and analysis devices.
Innovation Solution
A device with a rotatable sample collection well, reservoir compartment, and test compartment that allows for controlled sample distribution and storage, enabling easy detection of analytes in liquid samples, including saliva, with integrated test elements and a sample applicator for convenient use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional urine collection cups with analysis tests are used, then drug testing can be performed, but the devices are complicated and difficult or messy to use
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional modules: a collection well for sample receipt, an expression plate for sample application, and a test compartment for analysis. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall user interaction compared to integrated complex systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The test elements are extracted from the collection system and placed in a separate test compartment. This separation allows the collection well to focus solely on sample receipt and storage, while the test compartment handles analysis independently, reducing the complexity and messiness of the overall device operation.
2Reliability
If traditional urine collection cups are used, then drug testing can be performed, but they pose special problems of sample adulteration
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary actions by immediately sealing the sample in the collection well upon receipt and providing immediate testing capability. This rapid processing minimizes the time the sample is exposed to potential adulteration, while the sealed storage compartment prevents access to the sample until testing is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The expression plate serves as an intermediary between the collection well and the test compartment. It receives the sample from the collection well and transfers it to the test elements, providing a controlled intermediate step that prevents direct access to the sample while maintaining testing capability.
3Reliability
If traditional urine collection cups are used, then drug testing can be performed, but urine samples cannot be collected in certain situations such as on the road side or in public
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with universal applicability through its portable collection well that can be used in diverse settings including roadside and public locations. The sample collection mechanism is adaptable to different environments, and the integrated testing capability provides universal drug testing functionality regardless of location.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic elements including a rotatable sample collection well that can be positioned to receive samples from various directions, and a movable expression plate that adapts to different sample application methods. This dynamic design enables the device to function effectively in diverse collection settings.
4Ease of operation
If a rotatable sample collection well is used, then user control over sample distribution is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sample collection well is designed to rotate between different positions to control sample distribution pathways. This dynamic positioning allows users to direct sample flow to different destinations (e.g., test compartment or storage), providing user control while using a simple rotational mechanism rather than complex valve systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational mechanism of the sample collection well is designed to be manually operated by the user without requiring external actuators or complex control systems. The user simply rotates the collection well to the desired position, and the sample distribution pathways automatically align accordingly, providing self-service control.
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
Facilitates efficient and reliable detection of analytes, allows for sample storage for confirmatory testing, and provides user control over assay initiation, enhancing the ease and reliability of drug testing in various settings.
Implementation Method 1
an expression plate for wringing out the sample applicator and applying sample to the device
Implementation Method 2
a rotatable sample collection well situated in the port... fluid communication is provided through the reservoir outlet between the sample collection well and the reservoir compartment
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides test devices for detecting an analyte suspected of being present in a liquid sample. The devices contain a reservoir compartment, a test compartment, and a port for a sample collection well. The devices also have a rotatable sample collection well located in the port. The device has an upper chamber for insertion of a sample applicator, an expression plate for wringing out the sample applicator and applying sample to the device, a lower chamber, and an aliquot outlet and a reservoir outlet for the movement of sample through the device. The device also contains test elements for detecting the analyte of interest. By rotating the sample collection well, the operator is able to direct distribution of collected sample in the device. Methods of using the devices and kits containing the devices are also provided.