Self-Contained Sample Assembly with Penetrable Barrier Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surface sampling and analysis methods face challenges in efficiently collecting, transporting, and detecting analytes, particularly for environmental samples like COVID-19, due to issues with sample preservation and rapid detection on-site.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained assembly comprising a sample collection device with a handle and breakable sampling probe, a vial with penetrable barrier seals, and a lateral flow test strip that includes a buffer for preserving and stabilizing samples, allowing for sensitive detection of COVID-19 antigens and immune responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sampling methods are used, then sample collection is simple, but sample preservation and transport stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling probe is inserted through the barrier seal into the vial, with the sampling device nested within the housing and the vial contained within the same assembly. This nested configuration allows the sampling probe to access the vial interior without compromising the sealed environment, enabling stable sample preservation while maintaining a compact integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier seal is pre-configured in the vial with a penetrable structure before sampling occurs. The sampling probe is designed with a distal end that can penetrate this pre-positioned seal, allowing the sampling operation to proceed without compromising the previously maintained sealed environment, thus preserving sample stability from collection through transport.
2Productivity
If rapid on-site detection is implemented, then detection speed improves, but detection precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer solution acts as an intermediary between the collected sample and the detection system. It stabilizes the analyte concentration and maintains optimal conditions for the lateral flow test strip, enabling rapid detection while preserving measurement accuracy through chemical stabilization of the sample matrix.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly enables self-contained operation where the sampling device, preservation vial, and detection strip work together autonomously. The buffer automatically stabilizes the sample upon contact, and the lateral flow strip performs detection without requiring external equipment, achieving both rapid speed and reliable precision through self-sufficient design.
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
Enables efficient collection, transport, and rapid detection of COVID-19 antigens and immune responses, providing a user-friendly, self-contained system for on-site analysis with visible line test results, minimizing contamination and enhancing immediate testing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The vial may include a buffer. The buffer may include a deactivation buffer.
Implementation Method 2
a vial having a penetrable barrier seal adapted to prevent access to the vial until at least one penetrable activation
Implementation Method 3
a lateral flow test strip to communicate with the vial and to detect the at least one analyte, when present, when contacted with the sample
Data Source
AI summary
Sample collection and analysis devices, methods, and assemblies are shown and described. In one embodiment, an assembly includes a sample collection device and a removable vial having a penetrable barrier seal to prevent access to the vial until at least one penetrable activation. The result is improved efficient and effective sample collection and analysis.