Segmented Saliva Collection Wand for Identical Sample Splitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The collection and splitting of saliva samples for laboratory testing are challenging due to the low volume and high viscosity of saliva, making it difficult to handle and divide into identical samples.
Innovation Solution
A saliva collection device with two separate and equal-sized collection pads on a wand that can be easily separated into two halves, along with a buffer system for storage, ensuring the collection of identical samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If saliva is collected using conventional methods, then the collection process is simple, but the low volume and high viscosity make it difficult to handle and divide into identical samples
Solution Approach 1:
The collection device is divided into two separate collection chambers within a single wand structure. Each chamber collects saliva independently, ensuring equal division of the sample. The wand is perforated in the middle to allow easy separation into two halves, each containing an identical saliva sample for split specimen testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The device creates identical copies of the saliva sample by collecting equal volumes in two separate chambers simultaneously. This ensures that both split specimens are identical representations of the original sample, meeting the requirement for split specimens used in laboratory testing.
2Manufacturing precision
If a single collection pad is used, then the device structure is simple, but identical split samples cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The collection pad is segmented into two separate collection chambers positioned side by side on the wand. Each chamber collects saliva independently, ensuring that two identical samples are obtained simultaneously. The segmentation allows for equal division while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
3Quantity of substance
If saliva volume is low (1-3 mL), then the collection requirement is minimal, but handling and dividing the sample becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The collection device divides the small saliva volume into two equal portions simultaneously using two separate collection chambers. This segmentation approach ensures that even with low total volume (1-3 mL), each chamber receives an adequate and equal amount of saliva for testing, making the sample easier to handle and divide.
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 allows for the efficient collection and splitting of saliva samples into identical pairs, facilitating laboratory testing and addressing the challenges posed by the viscosity and low volume of saliva.
Implementation Method 1
The collection pads are made of a capillary material that allows visual detection of sufficient sample volume
Implementation Method 2
Each of the first body portion and the second body portion has a respective first wicking element and a second wicking element in fluid communication with the respective first collection pad and the second collection pad
Data Source
AI summary
A bodily fluid sample device comprises a wand body having an elongate configuration. The wand body has a first body portion and a second body portion, the wand body being initially unitary but configured so that the first body portion and second body portion can be separated from one another. For example, the wand body may define a line of perforations at which the first body portion and the second body portion can be separated from each other. A first collection pad is located on the first body portion and a second collection pad is located on the second body portion.