Sample Collection Device Using Movable Plates and Spacers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample collection and preservation devices are cumbersome, time-consuming, expensive, and difficult to adapt for miniaturized point-of-care or personal use, particularly for bio/chemical assays, and require professional handling.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising movable plates with spacers that compress a bio/chemical liquid sample into a uniform thin film, allowing for easy collection, preservation, and transportation without the need for pipettes, with integrated preservatives and reagents for specific treatments, enabling efficient storage and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sample collection and preservation devices are used, then sample preservation is achieved, but the devices are cumbersome, time-consuming, expensive, and require professional handling
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate plates (first plate and second plate) that can be used independently or together. The first plate collects and preserves the sample, while the second plate provides compression. This segmentation allows for simpler individual components that are easier to manufacture and handle, while still achieving reliable sample preservation when used in combination.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential function of sample preservation from complex conventional devices and implements it through a simple two-plate system with spacers. By taking out only the necessary elements (plates, spacers, optional seal) and eliminating unnecessary complexity, the device achieves reliable preservation while being easier to manufacture and handle.
2Reliability
If conventional sample collection devices are used, then sample preservation is achieved, but the process is time-consuming and requires professional handling
Solution Approach 1:
The first plate is pre-equipped with spacers at predetermined locations before sample collection. This preliminary arrangement of spacers ensures that when the second plate is placed on top, the sample is automatically compressed to a controlled thickness without requiring manual measurement or adjustment during the handling process, reducing time and eliminating the need for professional handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacers on the first plate and second plate automatically perform the function of controlling sample thickness and compression. The device serves itself by using the mechanical structure (spacers and plates) to achieve the preservation function without requiring external intervention or professional handling, thereby reducing handling time.
3Reliability
If conventional sample collection devices are used, then sample preservation is achieved, but the devices are expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The first plate and second plate can be designed as disposable components that are inexpensive to manufacture. Each plate is a simple structure (flat plate with spacers) that can be produced at low cost using standard manufacturing techniques. This allows for reliable sample preservation without the need for expensive, reusable conventional devices, making the solution cost-effective for single-use applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the key parameter of sample thickness from an uncontrolled variable to a controlled parameter by using spacers with predetermined heights. This parameter control is achieved through simple mechanical structures rather than complex equipment, reducing manufacturing costs while ensuring reliable preservation through consistent sample thickness.
4Ease of operation
If miniaturized assays for point of care or personal use are implemented, then ease of use is improved, but conventional preservation devices are hard to adapt
Solution Approach 1:
The first plate design with spacers is universal and can be adapted to different sample types and assay requirements. The same basic structure (plate with spacers) can be used for various sample volumes and compositions, making it versatile for different applications including point-of-care and personal use miniaturized assays, while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention controls sample thickness in the vertical dimension using spacers, which enables miniaturized assays to work effectively with controlled sample volumes. This dimensional control allows the device to be adapted to various assay formats and sample types without compromising ease of use, as the thickness control is automatically provided by the spacer structure.
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
Facilitates accurate and efficient collection, preservation, and analysis of small bio/chemical samples, including exhaled breath condensation, with easy handling and cost-effective methods, suitable for point-of-care applications, maintaining sample integrity and reducing handling complexities.
Implementation Method 1
a device comprising movable plates with spacers that compress a bio/chemical liquid sample into a uniform thin film
Implementation Method 2
making at least a portion of a small droplet of a liquid sample deposited on a plate to become a thin film with a thickness that is controlled, predetermined, and uniform over large area
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides, among other things, devices, methods and applications of collecting, preserving, transporting, and analyzing tiny body fluids which have targeted biomarkers.