Sample Collection Annulus for Integrated Liquid Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for collecting and processing liquid samples, such as blood, urine, and saliva, are inefficient and require multiple steps, including sample collection, processing, and reagent addition, which can lead to errors and inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that utilize a sample collection annulus with collection apertures to collect a film of the liquid sample, which is then inserted into a tubular container containing a reagent, allowing for efficient mixing and processing of the sample.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional sample collection and processing methods are used, then sample collection can be performed, but the process requires multiple steps including separate sample collection, processing, and reagent addition which increases device complexity and potential for errors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample collection and processing simplicityVSAvoidnumber of steps required

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines sample collection, processing, and reagent addition into a single integrated device. The collection aperture is positioned within the tubular container that holds both the reagent and processing components, allowing all operations to be performed in one continuous action rather than through separate steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single device performs multiple functions: it collects the liquid sample through the collection aperture, mixes it with the reagent in the tubular container, and enables processing operations. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate collection devices, processing equipment, and reagent addition tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If multiple separate steps are used for sample collection and processing, then each step can be performed individually, but this increases the time required and reduces productivity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample processing efficiencyVSAvoidtime for multiple steps

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The reagent is pre-loaded into the tubular container before sample collection. When the sample is collected through the collection aperture, it is immediately mixed with the pre-positioned reagent, eliminating the need for separate reagent addition steps and reducing overall processing time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges sample collection, reagent addition, and mixing into a single simultaneous operation. The collection aperture delivers the sample directly into the tubular container containing the reagent, and the mixing occurs automatically through the integrated design, thereby increasing productivity by eliminating sequential steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If manual manipulation of sample collection annulus is required, then flexibility in operation is maintained, but this increases the potential for operator errors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereduction of errorsVSAvoidmanual manipulation requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated design allows the sample collection and processing to occur automatically through the mechanical arrangement of components. When the collection aperture is positioned within the tubular container, the sample is automatically delivered to the reagent and mixing occurs through the inherent design, reducing reliance on complex manual manipulation and thereby improving reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

This approach simplifies the sample collection and processing steps, enabling efficient mixing of the sample with reagents, which enhances the accuracy and efficiency of diagnostic assays.

Implementation Method 1

contacting a liquid sample with one or more collection apertures of a sample collection annulus to collect a film of the liquid sample within each of the one or more collection apertures

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapillary action: Capillary Action