Sample Collection Device with Porous Matrix Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample collection and analysis devices require multiple manipulations, are not suitable for on-site use, and lack efficient storage and transportation capabilities, often leading to sample contamination or loss.
Innovation Solution
A device with three interconnected modules: a porous matrix for sample collection, a plug/piston for compression and transfer, and a tank for storage, which allows for hermetic sealing and simplified analysis using strip tests without additional pipetting, enabling efficient sample handling and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a centrifuge is used to transfer the sample, then the sample can be recovered, but the device becomes incompatible with on-site use and requires additional manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the sample from the solid matrix by dissolving it in a suitable solvent, eliminating the need for centrifugation equipment. The sample is taken out from its bound state in the matrix and transferred to a liquid phase that can be easily pipetted or dispensed for analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
A solvent acts as an intermediary substance between the sample bound in the solid matrix and the analysis system. The solvent mediates the transfer by dissolving the sample and carrying it to the analysis interface, replacing the need for mechanical centrifugation.
2Productivity
If the sample is transferred for subsequent analysis, then the analysis can be performed, but additional manipulation such as pipetting is required
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling, sample holding, and sample release functions are merged into a single integrated device. The solid matrix serves simultaneously as the sampling medium, storage medium, and release mechanism, eliminating the need for separate transfer steps and manual pipetting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables self-service operation where the sample automatically releases from the solid matrix when the device is connected to the analysis system. The design allows the sample to be dispensed without requiring the user to perform manual pipetting or transfer operations.
3Loss of time
If the enclosure is disconnected from the collector, then the sample can be stored, but there is risk of sample contamination or loss
Solution Approach 1:
The solid matrix is nested within the enclosure, and the entire assembly serves as a self-contained sample storage unit. The matrix is positioned inside the enclosure in a way that maintains sample integrity during storage and transport, protecting the sample from contamination while enabling delayed analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The solid matrix and enclosure can be designed as a disposable integrated unit that maintains sample integrity throughout storage and transport. After use, the entire assembly can be discarded, eliminating the risk of sample contamination from repeated disconnection and reconnection operations.
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 simplifies sample collection, storage, and analysis, reducing user manipulations, enhancing reliability and reproducibility, and allowing for secure transportation and delayed analysis while increasing signal detection in strip tests.
Implementation Method 1
The porous, optionally compressible, matrix, present in the device according to the invention, enables a liquid sample or a sample on a solid surface to be collected
Implementation Method 2
said plug being movable with respect to said enclosure from an initial position to a final position whereby said piston compresses said porous matrix or said sample
Data Source
AI summary
A device for taking and optionally processing a sample, includes (i) a housing containing a porous matrix that can receive the sample, (ii) a stopper that can be connected to the housing in a tight manner and including a piston that ensures the tight closing of the housing, compressing the porous matrix or the sample, and (iii) a storage receptacle that can be connected to the housing, can receive the sample that has passed through the porous matrix, and includes at least one conduit connecting the inside of the receptacle to the outside, once the porous matrix or the sample is compressed. The device also includes a seal between the stopper and the storage receptacle. The stopper closes the storage receptacle in a tight manner when the stopper and the storage receptacle are connected to the housing.