Rotating Squeeze Test Device Prevents Sample Splashing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rapid test devices pose a high infection risk due to sample splashing during collection, and existing methods are cumbersome, expensive, and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A test device featuring a rotatable and axially movable moving member with a spiral guiding slot and protruding structure, which deforms and squeezes a sample collection member made of absorbent material to prevent splashing, reducing the risk of infection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the sample dropping method is used, then the operation is simple, but the sample is easy to splash and infection risk is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cassette with a receiving chamber as an intermediary container between the sample source and the test area. The sample is collected in this enclosed chamber, preventing direct contact and splashing while maintaining operational simplicity. The chamber acts as a mediator that contains the sample throughout the testing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible membrane or lid covering the receiving chamber to contain the sample. This flexible barrier prevents splashing and contamination while allowing the chamber to be easily manipulated and integrated into the test device, resolving the contradiction between containment and ease of operation.
2Productivity
If the squeezing method with volcano-shaped opening is used, then the sample can be transferred, but the sample is easy to splash and infection risk is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a cassette with a enclosed receiving chamber as an intermediary to transfer the sample. Instead of directly squeezing the sample onto the test area, the sample is first collected in the chamber, then transferred through a controlled mechanism, preventing splashing and reducing infection risk while maintaining transfer efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the sample transfer process into distinct segments: sample collection in the receiving chamber, then separate transfer to the test area. This segmentation allows for controlled, stepwise transfer that prevents splashing while maintaining productivity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the injection molded test device is used, then the saliva collection sponge and cassette are integrally formed, but the hand is close to the saliva collection sponge during operation causing high infection risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the test device into separate functional components: a reusable cassette with receiving chamber and a disposable sample collection sponge. This segmentation allows the sponge to be easily replaced and disposed of after use, reducing infection risk while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a disposable sample collection sponge that is discarded after single use. This disposable component eliminates the need for hand contact with the sponge during operation, reducing infection risk while maintaining ease of manufacture through simple, low-cost materials that can be easily disposed of.
4Extent of automation
If the machine squeezing method is used, then the operation is automated, but the machine size is large, cost is high, and operation is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the user manually operates a plunger or compression device to squeeze the sample collection sponge against the cassette wall. This manual self-service approach eliminates the need for complex automated machinery, reducing device size and cost while maintaining operational convenience and automation-like functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a dynamic, manually-actuated compression mechanism that provides automated-like sample transfer functionality. The movable plunger or compression element creates controlled pressure to transfer the sample, achieving automation effects through simple mechanical motion rather than complex automated systems.
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 effectively prevents sample splashing during collection, reducing user infection risk and offering a more convenient and cost-effective operation compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
a sample collection member, made of deformed absorbent material
Implementation Method 2
the at least one protruding structure is moved along the at least one spiral guiding slot to move the sample collection member to rotatably axially squeeze the wall portion
Data Source
AI summary
A test device is provided, including: a test member, including a receive portion and a first connection portion, the receive portion including a receive groove and a wall portion formed the receive groove; a moving member, inserted into the receive groove, being rotatable and movable in an axial direction to the test member, including a second connection portion; a sample collection member, formed of deformed absorption material, disposed on the moving member and disposed within the receive groove; wherein when the moving member is rotated relatively to the test member, the at least one protruding structure is moved along the at least one spiral guiding slot to move the sample collection member to rotatably axially squeeze the wall portion.